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What is it about Afternoon Tea that makes us feel so refined? So satisfied and relaxed? Maybe it’s being served an indulgent selection of sandwiches and sweets. Maybe it’s the delicate tea cups and saucers. Maybe it’s being reminded of a different time in history. Whatever it is, we want more!

A three tiered serving stand holds sweets, sconess, and open-faced sandwiches. A second stand is in the background and a silver tea pot sits at the side.

Said to have been first introduced in Britain in the 1840s by the Duchess of Bedford as a late afternoon snack, it’s easy to see why this midday delight remains a well-loved experience even to this day.

Afternoon Tea at The Rooms Café is everything you might hope for it to be—and more. Expect to be served a selection of fine teas, sandwiches, freshly made scones with clotted cream and preserves, and rich sweets—all beautifully arranged on traditional 3-tiered serving stands.

We think the Duchess of Bedford would approve.

A close up shot of a silver tea pot next to a beautiful blue cup and saucer set with a light flower pattern and gold trim. In the background a guest holds a white tea cup.

There’s something so satisfying and indulgent about this experience, and being served your tea in a traditional silver tea pot with gorgeous fine china only adds to the elegance. Tea options include black teas like Tetley, earl grey, or English breakfast as well as green tea and peppermint.

Unique tea cup and saucer sets are presented to each guest, so you may find yourself in a hot debate over who has received the most desirable set!

And there’s something about The Rooms’ Afternoon Tea that we can’t quite put our finger on. See what we did there?

In the foreground, an open-faced vegetarian sandwich on a crostini. In the background there is a cup and saucer set as well as a serving stand full of treats.

Finger sandwiches with a modern twist may include chicken salad, smoked gouda and mango chutney, braised pork belly and mozzarella.

Have a vegetarian in the group? Simply mention it when you book and you will be served a beautiful selection of vegetarian sandwiches that will not disappoint. Options include this open-faced crostini with chili pesto and fresh crisp veggies.

A three-tiered serving stand is given a close up. On top sits macarons, brownies, and other sweet treats.

Finish your meal with an array of sweets, that may include rich brownies, delicate French macarons, decadent coconut brownies, and Nanaimo bars. Or, choose to eat them first! It is your tea experience, after all.

Afternoon Tea at The Rooms is a royal-worthy experience for just $24 per person plus tax. For the Winter season, Afternoon Tea is offered from 3 – 5 PM on Wednesdays only, but you can expect the addition of Friday afternoon come Spring. Be sure to call in advance to reserve your tea time!

The bright and open dining space at The Rooms' Cafe. Lights hang from the ceiling. Three tables of guests are seen from a distance.

Whether for a specific celebration with friends and family, or simply to treat yourself, this experience will be one to remember.

Be sure to check out The Room’s display of historic tea cups on your way out. Or, better still, why not make a day of it and visit their incredible exhibits and galleries as well? If you’re not too full, that is.

Published: February 5, 2021